- Any AI chat tool
- The document or bill, and a pen or a photo editor to hide private details
Remove private details first
Before you paste text or upload a photo, cover or delete your name, address, account and policy numbers, date of birth, Social Security number and any barcodes or QR codes. Keep only the parts you need explained.
🔒 Never paste passwords, one-time codes, full card or bank numbers, or your Social Security number into any AI chat.Check your chat settings
Most AI tools let you turn off using your chats to improve their models. See how to check your ChatGPT privacy settings. Some chats may still be kept for a while, so removing details matters most.
Ask it to explain in plain English
“Explain this bill like I'm new to it. What is each charge, and which ones are one-time?” or “Summarize this letter in 5 bullet points and tell me if it asks me to do anything.”
Ask what to check or ask
“What questions should I ask the company about this?” AI is good at helping you prepare for the call.
Confirm with the source
AI can misread numbers and doesn't know your account. For anything about money, health or the law, confirm with the company, your doctor or a qualified professional. Use the phone number printed on the real bill or the company's official website.
⚠️ AI can be wrong. Check names, numbers, dates and prices yourself before you rely on them. See why AI makes things up.
Got a bill or letter that feels off? It could be a scam: see how to spot phishing.
Related game: Scam or Legit?. Related explainer: Is AI safe? What happens to what you type .